The U.S. healthcare system is facing a shortage of Physicians in many medical specialties and practice areas. But the problem is especially severe in obstetrics and gynecology.
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) projects a shortage of up to 8,800 Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB-GYNs) by 2020, and a shortfall of up to 22,000 by 2050. In fact, the ACOG estimated in 2017 that half of the U.S. counties lack a single OB-GYN.
A report from Doximity shows the areas with the highest and lowest risk of shortages.
The areas with the highest risk of shortages:
1. Las Vegas
2. Salt Lake City
3. Miami
4. Riverside, CA
5. Los Angeles
6. Buffalo, NY
7. Jacksonville, FL
8. Detroit
9. Pittsburgh
10. Dallas
The areas with the lowest risk of shortages:
1. Portland, OR
2. San Jose, CA
3. San Francisco
4. Charleston, NC
5. Birmingham, AL
6. Cleveland
7. Denver
8. Hartford, CT
9. Louisville, KY
10. Indianapolis
While OB-GYNs are a primary source of care to women during pregnancy and delivery, they also provide a wide range of gynecological care throughout women’s lives. From reproductive cancer screenings to preventive services, the ACOG recommends many women visit their OB-GYNs at least once a year. The ACOG’s predicted shortages would have a significant and negative impact on women’s healthcare in the U.S.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported that the number of births in 2018 fell 2% from 2017, the lowest number of births in 32 years. For millennial women, this drop is particularly pronounced; birthrates for women aged 25-29 in 2018 fell 3% from 2017 while birthrates for women aged 20-24 decreased 4% during the same time period.
To view the full report, click here.